SAGAMOK ANISHINABEK NEWS

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SAGAMOK
ANISHINABEK NEWS
Naabdin Giizis 2015
Published Monthly by
Sagamok Anishnawbek
Biidaaban Classic Hockey Tournament
See Division champs on
Page 3
In memoriam
Reprint of our Interview with Bill Sago
Page 11
The Sagamok News is
available anytime VIA
download at Sagamok.
ca/newsletters, or read
it online at ISSUU.com/
sagamok.
Family Day got a lot of families out on the ice. Over 140 participants took part in the annual
derby. Story on page 13.(Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)
Biinjiying
Yes Program by Sault College
Community Notifications
ASETS
Community Justice Program
Measles Notice
Dog Control
Colour Photo Section
Page 3
Pages 2, 4,5, 13-19
Pages 7-9
Page 10
Page 15
Page 14
Back Page
Do not forget to
SUBSCRIBE TO the
“Anish Nabe” Youtube
channel for sagamok
news interviews with
inspirational people
and updates from
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workshops, forums and
announcements.
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SAGAMOK ANISHNAWBEK NEWS
Sagamok Anishnawbek News is a product of the Community Development and Nation Building Project. A Communications Core Group
formed to respond requesting timely and up to date information of our
Administration of Government.
The Sagamok Anishnawbek News first published in June 2004. It will
continue monthly information sharing related to Sagamok Anishnawbek
Administration of Government.
PUBLISHING CRITERIA
The Sagamok Anishnawbek News is a monthly publication of the Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation. Views expressed are not necessarily
the opinion or political position of the First Nation. No portion of this
paper may be reproduced without the written permission of the Sagamok
Anishnawbek News Editorial Board.
All contributors will be provided a reply regarding the receiving of their
submission. As administrator and editor we reserve the right to edit,
condense, print, reject or delay publication of submissions. Publication
of submissions is based upon priority of interest. All contributors must
include contact information with their submission. Submissions which
include pictures must include information regarding the content of the
photo.
The Sagamok News is offering cash honoraria for article submissions
from Community members. All articles must be 250 words or more in
length and relevant to Sagamok Anishnawbek. All articles must be typed
or formatted using MS Word and sent to the email address Newsletter@
Sagamok.ca or dropped off at the Sagamok Newsletter mailbox in the
Band office. The monthly deadline for submissions is the 3rd Friday of
each month. A maximum of $100 honoraria per month will be shared
amongst membership contributors. Letters to the editor and all other employee submissions are not applicable to the Community Member news
article Initiative.
Newspaper Working Group: Michelle Toulouse
Janet Owl
Allen Toulouse
Wayne Peltier
Laura McMeekin-Clarke
Rebecca Toulouse
Ezra Owl
Amanda Hardisty
Mitzi Toulouse
Lorna Sinobert
Veronica Nashkawa
Production: Sagamok Anishnawbek News
Administration:
Allen Toulouse
ADVERTISING & NEW DEADLINES
Deadline for the April 2015 issue
Submission Deadline: March 20th, 2015
Scheduled Printing: April 8th, 2015
SUBMISSION INQUIRIES
Telephone (705) 865-2421 ext 270
Toll Free
1-800-567-2896
[email protected]
Donations Payable to: Sagamok Anishnawbek News
P.O. Box 610, Massey, Ontario , P0P 1P0
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“YES Program” by Sault
College
Sagamok’s Youth Entrepreneurship Skills Program students work
on their business plans for a opportunity to earn a $3000.00 grant.
Written by: Charlene Owl, Economic Development Assistant
Sault College hosted the YES (Youth Entrepreneurship Skills)
Program from February 2 - 20, 2015. The program enabled the
successful completion of business plans from youth participants
from Sagamok. The students developed sound business cases
and strong desires to start a successful small business and selfemployment ventures. Since completing their business plans they
have also become eligible for a $3,000 micro grant.
Three weeks included the following:
Week One
-Business Model & Feasibility
Week Two
-Marketing & Operations
Week Three
Finances
Biidaaban Classic Crowns Sacred Heart
“A” Champions
Biidaaban Team Members: Grant Stonefish, Drake Stonefish, Logan
Corbiere, Carson Abitong, Amber Chiblow, Desirae Southwind, Zane
Eshkakogan, Tyson Francis, Amara Makadebin, Kiana Corbiere,
Draven Abitong, Jacinta Eshkakogan, Gavin Trudeau,
Coach –
Michael Abitong
By: Becky Toulouse
On February 18th, Hockey teams representing Lakeview from
M’Chigeeng, Pontiac from Wikwemikong, A.B. Ellis and Scared
Heart from Espanola, St Marys from Massey and Biidaaban
Kinoomaagegamik engaged in the annual Biidaaban Classic Hockey
Tournament. Following over seven hours of hockey games, Sacred
Heart, Lakeview and Pontiac emerged the champions of their
respective divisions.
Thanks to all sponsors and volunteers, both parents and students who
helped make this another successful tournament.
A Championship – Sacred Heart over St Marys Massey 6-2
B Championship – Lakeview over A.B. Ellis 7-1
Through hard work and hours of research, the youth acquired the
information for their business idea with the assistance of Sault
College Instructors Norm Michele and Dave Barrett. They assisted
with any questions and concerns. The group took part in discussions,
group work and working individually.
C Championship – Pontiac over Biidaaban 3-2
Our last day was celebrated with a luncheon and participants were
awarded Sault College Certificates. Congratulations to all of the
youth on the successful completion of the program.
Kennedy Sintal – Sacred Heart
Gavin Brown – St Marys
Caleb Parks – AB Ellis
All Star Team
Forwards
Defense
Zane Eshkakogan – Biidaaban
Noah Manitowabi – Pontiac
Goalie
Kacey Debassige - Lakeview
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Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy
(ASETS) Post 2015 Update: Agreement Extension
The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ASETS)
is a five year agreement that provides funding through Employment
and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to assist unemployed
individuals with accessing training opportunities to secure full
time employment. Sagamok Anishnawbek ASETS LDM is a subagreement to the North Shore Tribal Council ASETS Agreement.
The current five year agreement expires on March 31, 2015. In
November 2014, ASETS Sagamok received notification that the
current agreement will receive a one year extension, and will
therefore have opportunity to continue to operate under the current
agreement parameters until March 2016. This extension period will
allow for Employment and Social Development Canada to conduct
a comprehensive review the ASET Strategy, and determine the
future of ASETS funding post 2016.
In January 2015, ASETS Sagamok completed and submitted
Annual Operations and Expenditure plans to ensure the continued
provision of services to the Sagamok Community from April 2015
to March 2016.
If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an
appointment to discuss your training options, please contact ASETS
Sagamok at (705) 865-2421.
Trade Equivalency Assessment
The Ontario College of Trades
What is Trade Equivalency Assessment?
Do your skills, knowledge, and experience match an Ontario
apprenticeship? The ASETS LDM can assist you with applying for
the Trade Equivalency Assessment (TEA).
If you have work experience and training in a skilled trade
from Ontario or another province, territory or country, you may
be eligible to have your experience and skills compared to an
apprenticeship program in Ontario.
The Trade Equivalency Assessment (TEA) process assesses
your skills based on one of the over 150 Ontario apprenticeship
programs. If you can demonstrate that you meet all the training
requirements of that apprenticeship, you will qualify to apply for
certification in your trade.
Is the Trade Equivalency Assessment process right for me?
Experienced Workers from within and outside of Ontario with
skills, knowledge, and experience that are equivalent to a
Certificate of Apprenticeship in Ontario have the option of applying
for equivalency. It is the applicant’s responsibility to provide all
required supporting documents to prove equivalency to the training
standards. This proof may include detailed letters from past or
present employers, job descriptions, and training credentials. Your
proof is attached to your application, and the Ontario College of
Trades will assess this to the training standards to determine if you
qualify for Trade Equivalency. Some trades require a written exam,
while others do not.
Further information on the Trade Equivalency Assessment process
can be obtained at http://www.collegeoftrades.ca/trade-assessment
Information on Training Standards for your trade can be obtained at
http://www.collegeoftrades.ca/training-standards
If you’d like assistance with reviewing your eligibility, you can
contact ASETS staff to book an appointment to pre-assess your
TEA prospects, by calling (705) 865-2421.
Sagamok Anishnawbek Aboriginal Skills and
Employment Training Strategy
Summer Student Program
Are you an employer looking for help with hiring a
summer student?
ASETS Sagamok may be able to assist you with employing a
student for summer work. We provide funding assistance to
employers who are interested in hiring a Sagamok member.
You could be eligible to receive a wage subsidy of 75% to
100% of minimum wage rate to employ a member of Sagamok
Anishnawbek.
Are you a Sagamok member student seeking career
related summer work experience?
ASETS Sagamok may be able to assist you with securing that
awesome summer job you’ve been dreaming of by subsidizing your
wages directly to an employer.
For more information and to obtain an application, contact ASETS
Sagamok at (705) 865-2421 or visit http://www.sagamok.ca/
aboriginal-skills-and-employment-training-strategy
Applications are due by April 15, 2015
Important Notice to Housing
Applicants
Decline of Housing Units - A briefing paper has
been presented to the Housing Committee on June
10, 2014 on the decline of Housing Offers, Currently
a tenant has 5 working days to respond to offers.
After some discussion on the briefing paper the
following recommendation was made for inclusion in
the Housing Policy on Decline of offers.
MOTION to accept the following for inclusion in
the Housing Policy regarding Decline of Offer(s)
“That a band member(s) has qualified for a housing
unit and the housing committee has approved the
housing allocation, and whereas in the case of nonacceptance (decline, refusal) by the applicant(s) that
application shall be removed from the Waiting List
for a period of one year”
Consideration shall be given to applicants(s) where
personal and family circumstances have changed
within the ineligibility period. Documentation
of request shall be requested to substantiate
the housing request. Final decision shall be the
housing committee membership.
Moved by:Cecil
Seconded by:Pamela
CARRIED
Toulouse
Keysis
Furthermore, It is the responsibility of the applicant
to ensure that their application remains active.
Applications are kept on file for one year.
If you require further, information please contact the
housing department.
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Anishnawbek Skills and Employment
Strategy
Applying For a Social Insurance Number
The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number that you
need to work in Canada or to have access to government programs
and benefits. All of the programs offered through the Aboriginal
Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ASETS) as administered
through the Sagamok Anishnawbek Education Unit require the
client to have a SIN Number. There is no fee to apply for a Social
Insurance Number (SIN).
The A/OFRC is seeking a suitable candidate to participate in a one year comprehensive training
program in the field of Fisheries Assessment and Management being delivered to the Anishinabek
Nation as represented by the Union of Ontario Indians (UOI).
If you reside in Canada, you should apply in-person at a Service
Canada point of service. When applying in-person, you do not
have to complete an application form nor do you have to mail your
original proof-of-identity documents. Simply gather the documents
you need and take them to the nearest Service Canada point of
service office. You can obtain your SIN in less than 15 minutes and
do not need to part with your original proof of identity documents.
Rate: $20/hr
Requirements
You need to provide a primary document to apply for a SIN. A
primary document is an official document that proves your identity
and status in Canada. Service Canada requires seeing an original of
your primary document. If the name on this document is different
from the name you currently use, you will also need to provide
a supporting document verifying your legal name change. Your
supporting document must be an original, written in English or
French. REMEMBER: Photocopies are not accepted.
The following are considered to be Primary Canadian Citizen proofof-identity documents:
A certificate of birth or birth certificate issued by the vital statistics
agency in the province or territory where you were born (Note:
Quebec proof-of-birth documents issued prior to 1994 are not
accepted);
Certificate of Canadian Citizenship issued by Citizenship and
Immigration Canada (CIC); or
Certificate of Registration of Birth Abroad issued by CIC.
Individuals registered with Aboriginal Affairs and Northern
Development Canada (AANDC), formerly Indian and Northern
Affairs Canada (INAC), need to provide the following original
documents if they want their status on the Social Insurance Register
indicated as “Status Indian”:
Born in Canada: one of the documents identified in section
Canadian Citizens above and a Certificate of Indian Status issued
by INAC or AANDC; or
Born outside Canada: birth certificate issued by a state authority
from your country of birth and a Certificate of Indian Status issued
by INAC or AANDC.
Additional documents are required for representatives, Parents or
legal guardians applying on behalf of a minor child.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
ONLINE www.servicecanada.gc.ca,
CALL 1-800-206-7218 (Select option “3”). Agents are available
Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Canadian Local Time,
except on statutory holidays. If you have a hearing or speech
impairment and use a teletypewriter (TTY), call 1-800-926-9105.
VISIT a Service Canada Centre. Sagamok Area Local Service
Canada Office is located in Espanola at 721 Centre Street, Suite
2, Espanola, Ontario. Hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30am
to 4:00pm. For other office locations, you can find the Centre
nearest you by visiting the Service Canada Web site or by calling
1-800-O-Canada (1-800-622-6232).
Aboriginal Fisheries Technician Intern
Anishinabek / Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre
Job Description: The intern will receive training in fisheries assessment and management which
will include project design, field techniques, data summary and analysis, and report writing. The
intern will work on a daily basis with an experienced staff mentor, while being given the opportunity
to acquire supervisory experience. Extensive field work will expose the intern to a variety of
fisheries issues being dealt with by First Nation communities and the state-of-the-art scientific
techniques used to address these issues. There may be opportunities to work in natural resource
fields other than fisheries, depending on the project portfolio under management by the A/OFRC
during the intern’s tenure.
Location: The position is based in North Bay, Ontario. It is not A/OFRC policy to provide
assistance with the costs of relocation. It will be the responsibility of the successful candidate to
arrange accommodations in North Bay.
Eligibility: Graduated from an accredited college or university within the last three years, in a postsecondary degree or diploma program. The position must provide the intern with first-time
employment in his or her field of study (exclusive of summer or part-time employment during the
term of study).
Qualifications: The ideal candidate will have:
• A keen interest in natural resources management and dedication to the principles of
conservation
• Understanding of fisheries issues facing communities within the Anishinabek Nation
• Good oral and written communication skills as well as good interpersonal skills
• Computer literacy
• Ability to work in inclement weather and in harsh conditions
• Experience with various types of watercraft and must be comfortable with working on all
sizes of waterbodies
• A commitment to safe work practices
• Flexibility to be away from home for extended periods
• Membership in a First Nation represented by the Anishinabek Nation: Union of Ontario
Indians
Application Deadline: 11 March, 2015
Please mail applications to: A/OFRC, 755 Wallace Rd., Unit #5, North Bay, Ontario, P1A 0E7; or
electronically to [email protected].
THIS OPPORTUNITY IS
PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY:
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Aboriginal Strategic Employment TS
Getting Your Foot in the Door Part 1: Job
Search Techniques
Getting Your Foot in the Door Part 2: Creating
Effective Resumes
Are you currently looking for work and feeling overwhelmed by
process? Finding work can certainly feel like a daunting task.
There are many ways to undergo job searching, and some of them
may surprise you. Let’s review some of the ways that can be
effective in searching for work.
Do you feel like you are sending out resume after resume and not
getting any response? Are you finding it difficult to secure a job
that you are really interested in, even though you feel you have the
skills and experience the employer is looking for? It could be a
result of your resume.
Searching Online
Job hunting has a few steps involved before you can win the prize
of employment. Getting an interview based on your resume is
the first step. The goal of the resume is to get you in the door, but
that alone does not usually get you the job. On average, you only
get about 10 seconds of attention from the person screening your
resume. They are quickly scanning for relevant information to
determine if they are going to consider you for employment. Your
resume is where you make this vital first impression.
Thanks to the internet, we live in a time called the information age.
You can access information on just about anything on the World
Wide Web. For many people, this is the first place they go to when
searching for employment. Here are some online resources to help
with your job searching:
Government Job Banks
Government of Canada National Job Bank:
Provincial Government Jobs:
Federal Government Jobs:
htm
www.jobbank.gc.ca
www.gojobs.gov.on.ca/jobs.aspx
http://jobs-emplois.gc.ca/index-eng.
General Job Banks
www.wowjobs.ca
Every resume should match the job and the culture of the company
you are sending it to. Many people are still creating a “one size fits
all” resume, but in reality, you should have a variety of resumes
available for each field that you are looking into for employment.
You should target your objective and highlights to be specific for
each job you apply to. A targeted resume is much stronger than a
generic resume.
Standard Resume Practices
www.workopolis.com
There are some general rules that should be followed for any
resume that you create. Always start with your objective and end
with your references, everything in between can be moved around,
but your highlight should also be near the beginning – remember,
if they can’t clearly see why they should call you within the first 10
seconds of looking at your resume, you could be passed over.
Aboriginal Specific Job Info:
Here are some general Do’s and Don’ts for creating resumes:
http://nationtalk.ca/jobs/
Do
www.aboriginalcareers.ca
Type your resume
www.inclusionnetwork.ca/aboriginal-jobs/index.htm
Put name and contact info noticeably at the top
The Hidden Job Market
Create a professional sounding email address to use
ASETS Department also has a Job Board available that is updated
daily with a variety of employment opportunities to assist you in
finding employment. The job board consists of local opportunities,
and may also include employment from hidden job markets.
“Hidden Job Market” consists of jobs that are posted in local
communities and are shared amongst community resources. Often,
positions with the local hidden job market, are not posted on public
job banks. This is why it is a good practice to visit local job boards
often, while you are job searching.
Choose fonts that are consistent and easy to read
www.indeed.ca
www.monster.ca
Networking
It may also be useful to utilize social media to assist with your job
search. Sites such as LinkedIn allow you to create a profile that will
then match you up with opportunities in your field.
Word of mouth networking is another important and effective
method of job searching. Asking friends, family, acquaintances who
are employed if they know of any openings, or if their companies
are hiring, is always a useful method of hearing about jobs that are
not posted, or that may be upcoming. Creating networking cards
allows you to promote your skills to market yourself in the job
market.
For assistance with any of these, please visit the ASETS office,
located at the Sagamok Multi-Education Centre.
Choose a clean and simple paper type
Use Spelling and Grammar check tools
Do Not
Scratch things out to make changes or write over
Submit a resume with outdated contact info
Include personal info like SIN #, Date of Birth, Photos
Overuse bold, italics, or colour in the bodies of sections
Include graphics (unless applying for an artistic position)
Choosing Resume Format
You should select a resume format that will ensure that you get the
right points across. There are three main formats worth considering
when developing your resumes, and each has a specific purpose for
highlighting relevant points.
Continued on next page
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1.Chronological Format
The chronological resume is the most widely used and is accepted
as a generally standard format. It works brilliantly when you have
stayed consistent in your career. As long as the job you are applying
for is in the same field, the full chronology will be relevant to the
employer, as it will highlight and focus on your relevant experience.
Your employment history is actually in reverse chronological order
and your current or most recent position will be listed first. The
chronological resume doesn’t work well when you have gaps in
your employment history, or when you have shifted industries often,
as it can expose weak points. Standard headings are as follows:
•Objective
•Highlight of Qualifications / Accomplishments
•Experience
•Education
•References
Creating great resumes is always a worthy investment of your time.
After all that effort, you will definitely want to keep an electronic
version. USB sticks are useful, but can be lost, so it is good practice
•Objective – What is the specific purpose for sending your resume to email your resumes to yourself. This allows you the ability to
access your resumes from any computer with internet access, so you
(ie. To obtain a position as an AZ Driver)
will always have one on hand for quicker and easier updating. You
•Highlight of Qualifications – what are the top 3-5 important never know when that perfect job will come along or when you’ll
need to submit your resume in a pinch.
facts that make you the best candidate
•Experience – what is your work experience starting with the
most recent
•Education – what education and/or certificates do you possess
starting with the most recently obtained
•References – usually three people who can attest to your
previous work
2.Functional Format
The functional format should be used when you want to draw
attention away from your work experience to focus on what you
can do (skills and core competencies you have) and what your
achievements are. This could be due to a long or short work history,
employment gaps, etc. This format is used by graduates, people
seeking to change their career, and anyone with employment gaps
that don’t add value to what they are applying for. If you are
looking to change industries, make sure to focus on transferable
skills such as communication, working with numbers, analyzing
problems to determine possible solutions, etc. Standard headings
are as follows:
•Objective
•Accomplishments – what noteworthy accomplishments do you
have that are relevant to the work
•Capabilities – what are the skills and competencies you want to
highlight
•Employment History – listing of previous work in reverse
chronological order
•Education
•References
3.The Combined Format
The combination format is exactly what it sounds like. It combines
both of the previous formats to give you the best features from the
functional resume with the easy to read layout of the chronological
format.
This format could benefit someone who is changing careers and
has relevant skills for the new field, wants to highlight more skills
than the work experience section allows for, or who wants to sell
their competencies and downplay gaps in work history. Standard
headings are as follows:
If you would like help with creating your resumes, you can visit a
local employment office for assistance. In Sagamok, ASETS staff
are available to help you with creating your winning resume. To
make an appointment, call us at (705) 865-2421, ext. 242 to start
your intake.
The Hidden Job Market
ASETS Department also has a Job Board available that is updated
daily with a variety of employment opportunities to assist you in
finding employment. The job board consists of local opportunities,
and may also include employment from hidden job markets.
“Hidden Job Market” consists of jobs that are posted in local
communities and are shared amongst community resources. Often,
positions with the local hidden job market, are not posted on public
job banks. This is why it is a good practice to visit local job boards
often, while you are job searching.
Networking
It may also be useful to utilize social media to assist with your job
search. Sites such as LinkedIn allow you to create a profile that will
then match you up with opportunities in your field.
Word of mouth networking is another important and effective
method of job searching. Asking friends, family, acquaintances who
are employed if they know of any openings, or if their companies
are hiring, is always a useful method of hearing about jobs that are
not posted, or that may be upcoming. Creating networking cards
allows you to promote your skills to market yourself in the job
market.
For assistance with any of these, please visit the ASETS office,
located at the Sagamok Multi-Education Centre.
10
COMMUNITY JUSTICE PROGRAM
MIWDOODAA MINO MAADIZIWIN DIVERSION PROGRAM
MISSION
The community Justice Program will support offenders, families and victims to restore balance and harmony in
relationships as they work towards healing; assist offenders in reintegration into the community; instill pride in
their Anishnawbek identity; create community awareness of justice issues through education; and work together
with other programs and services to improve the quality of life for all community members
Eligibility
• Youth ages 12-17, Adults 18+, member or resident of Sagamok Anishnawbek who normally resides in Sagamok, individual has
agreed and consented to voluntary participation in the diversion program, individual has consulted with legal counsel
Justice Committee
Guided by the sacred teachings of the seven grandfathers, the Justice committee consists of Sagamok Anishnawbek
community members who promote decision by consensus, equality, balance and unity.
Length of Program
• The length of the program is determined by two factors.
• Case by case basis and the time given to the client to complete conditions as outlined in the Healing and Wellness Plan
• Address causes of the offending behaviour
The needs of the victim(s) will be adequately addressed
• The safety and harmony of the community will be enhanced through the use of a community based approach
• Community ownership and responsibility
• Reduced charge or withdrawal of charge
DUTY TO REPORT
Kids shouldn’t have to live with abuse. Reporting
suspected child abuse and neglect is everyone’s
responsibility. To learn more about child abuse and
neglect, how to recognize it and what happens
when you call a children’s aid society, visit www.
useyourvoice.ca. Use your voice. Report your
suspicions of child abuse and neglect to your local
Children’s Aid Society at 705-566-3113.
11
In reflection, an interview with Bill Sago
AT: Kind of like karma?
BS: Yeah!
AT: When you complete an artwork do you
admire what you have done?
BS: To me I just paint, I do not feel like I
make masterpieces. This is my escape, once
I begin painting it takes me to a place where
I am totally relaxed and when I am finished,
I will look at it and think that is nice and put
it aside. Someone else may enjoy it more.
Bill Sago in a photo taken June 2010.
Now, I can look at other people’s artwork
and be amazed and say “Wow, now that is
some great work!” Yet I cannot see that with
my stuff. I feel good when I am painting, but
when I am done that is that.
(Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)
AT: Are there any artists you admire?
I n memory of local artist Bill Sago, we have
reprinted our June 2010 interview with him.
AT: Allen Toulouse
BS: Bill Sago
AT: How long have you been an artist?
BS: All through school I did drawings,
sketches and doodles. I owe it all to my
teacher, Judith Dylan. She saw me drawing
and said “Bill have you ever painted?” I
said, “No, I have never painted.” She told
me to try it out and ever since then I have
been painting. She was the first one to
believe in me.
AT: As an artist you can make whatever you
want, but what drew to the style you use?
BS: I do not know, I just start painting and
that is that. I can already see the painting
before I even put it on paper. I just think for
a minute and that is how it comes out. It is
just something that comes out on the paper.
Painting animals and scenery from a First
Nations view it is what we are close to. It is
my connection.
AT: You do more then paint though.
BS: My mother did leather work, mitts and
necklaces. Growing up with her crafts it was
just natural that I got into it. Helping mom
with the leather and beads, just escalated
when I took up painting.
AT: Is the Powwow trail the best venue for
getting your work out to the public?
BS: Well, that is basically the best thing
about the Powwow, you are where
everything is. There is artwork and you will
see lots of artists. It is like a big competition,
there are a few artists I know who did these
big canvas paintings. Through my years I
have got my little following and they have
collections of my stuff from over the years.
They say “I bought that way back!”
and I will be humbled.
AT: Any concerns that you may get type
casted as an artist?
BS: All artists have their own basic style
and I have had people question why I do
not do some stuff like another guy. There
are certain things I will paint and something
other people paint , we can be similar but
there is always something in it that makes it
our own.
I visited a Medicine Man in my late twenties
and something just told me to go see him.
He sits me down and told me, “I knew you
would be coming, I was expecting you.
You do art work and are an artist.” Never
met this guy before and knows where I
was from, he says I live along the river. He
tells me to close my eyes and told me to
relax. Next thing you know I felt as though
I was on a cliff, I am trying to think how
am I here? He tells me not to fear and I fall
forward and I was way up. He tells me “I
am going to show you something.” There it
is a tiny speck, a tiny orange flame and he
tells me to go over there. I went straight for
it and as I get there he says “Can you see
what that is?” It was me! I was sitting by the
fire. He asks me, “What are you doing?” I
am painting! He says “That is what you are
meant to do. Remember it is not about the
money, you will gain so much more if every
once and while you give a piece of art work
away. Do something to give back. You will
know it will take you further and gain more
than you ever will if it is about the money. I
open my eyes and we are back in the house.
He says “You remember what I told you.
There will be time you will understand.”
That is what I have been doing ever since,
every now and then I just give a piece of art
work away.
BS: I guess I love the way Blake Debassigae
does his stuff, he is from M’Chigeeng he
uses a lot of bright colours, I love the way
he does his. Gordon Fiddler too, he has a lot
of nice pieces.
AT: That is a lot of local talent.
BS: People always question how I do my
trees, I always tell them I was born in Little
Current and I have a connection with there.
Every time I do a little island with the trees,
when you are getting into Little Current you
see those islands with the trees and that is
where I get my inspiration for my trees. It is
a common question and I tell them I got it
from the Island. My mom always told me I
had a lot of cousins on the island and that is
where Grandpa was from. Born up there but
lived here all my life. So I tell them when
you go to Little Current, look at the Island
and you will see where my connection is.
One thing I wish we had would be
someplace where we could showcase our
artwork. I meet a lot of people and they are
surprised that I paint. It is probably a good
fifty percent of the community that does not
know that I paint. Like my other painters
here on Sagamok, we have no place here on
Sagmok to showcase our talent.
I sometimes get caught where I can’t paint.
You have to have the right frame of mind
and if something is bothering me I can’t
paint. My wife, she knows me well and
when she knows something is bothering
me she will come over and ask, “What is
wrong?” I will say, “Well I do not know,
I am just thinking about things.” Then she
goes “Well, stop thinking and start painting.”
12
13
14
Biidaaban Students Attend First Nation, Thirty Dog houses donated to Sagamok on
Metis and Inuit Learning and Leadership behalf of IFAW, Habitat for Humanity and
Conference
Volunteers,
Left to Right: Teddy Trudeau, Andrew Smith, Liam Bennett,
Darius Bennett, Landee Kokoko, Felicity Southwind and Ashley
Soutwind-Holmes
Dog Control Officer Sanford Owl, carries one of thirty Dog houses
that have been donated by the Internal Fund for Animal Welfare and
Habitat for Humanity (Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)
By: Becky Toulouse
By: Allen Toulouse
Seven students from Biidaaban Kinoomaagegmik recently had
the opportunity to attend the First Nations Metis and Inuit Learning
and Leadership Conference hosted by Tim Hortons Camp in Parry
Sound. Students spent four days with participants from as far north
as Fort Albany and Attiwapiskat and as far west as Batchewana.
Thirty dog houses assembled by students of the College
Heights Secondary School in Guelph, Ontario have made their way
to Sagamok First Nation. The houses were built with aid from the
International Fund for Animal Welfare and Habitat for Humanity.
Stanford Owl was on hand to deliver some of the houses with the
The 2014-15 First Nation, Métis and Inuit Learning and Leadership remainder awaiting pick up at Toulouse Grocery and Gas Bar.
Conference focused on developing confidence, self-esteem, and
leadership skills to empower participants to be more engaged in their The dog houses could not have arrived at a more perfect
school community and education. The conference incorporated First time. Temperatures for that week had descended to minus 32 with
Nation, Métis and Inuit cultures, histories and perspectives that reflect a wind chill. In spite of fur coats and the legendary reputation of
the student participant’s background.
some breeds, dogs can die from exposure, especially in a winter as
Students participated in workshops including Anishnaabemowin consistently cold as this year’s. Diane Porretti was one of the first
Language, drumming, dancing, Inuit art, cultural teachings, improv to receive a dog house and on the topic said, “ It is fantastic! They
did an excellent job and must be congratulated for helping out.”
drama and outdoor initiatives.
Participants, chaperons and presenters shared in laughter, fun and A week following the arrival of the dog house Diane is pleased
learning in a beautiful setting around Lake Lorimer and Tim Hortons to say the home is a wonder for her pets. The dog house is often
occupied by not only her dog but other roving rovers. Chicamp facilities.
Meegwetch on behalf of the families of Sagamok to our Animal
Control Officer Stanford Owl, our friends in the College Heights
Secondary School, Habitat for Humanity and the International
Fund for Animal Welfare.
15
Public Health Notice: Measles
Why you should take note
Cases of measles have been reported in Canada. Measles is
relatively rare in Canada thanks to high immunization rates across
the country. However, Canada will continue to see measles cases
related to travel to countries where measles is endemic or there are
large outbreaks.
Measles is a highly infectious disease characterized by
the following
Fever
Runny nose
Drowsiness
Additionally, the United States is reporting a multi-state outbreak of
measles related to an amusement park in California, which started
in December 2014. Related cases have since been reported in other
states and in Mexico.
Irritability
Laboratory testing has shown that some of the Canadian cases are
related to the strain circulating in the United States while others are
not.
Small white spots on
the inside of the mouth
and throat
Measles is a very contagious disease, characterized by a red blotchy
rash, and can be very serious, commonly causing diarrhea and
pneumonia, and in rarer cases encephalitis and death. It spreads
easily through close contact with an infected person.
Red blotchy rash that
starts on the face three
to seven days after the
start of the symptoms
and then progresses
down the body.
Measles affects all age groups and can be prevented by a vaccine.
Canada has a rigorous scientific review process in place to ensure
vaccines are safe and effective in preventing the diseases they target.
More information on measles is available on our web site.
Risk to Canadians
If you have received two doses of measles-containing vaccine, or if
you have been infected with the measles virus before, then you are
at very low risk of catching the disease.
If you have not been vaccinated and have never had the illness, then
you are at risk of infection if you come in contact with someone
infected with the virus.
A person can also be susceptible if they have a weakened immune
system due to an underlying medical condition. Children who
are less than one year of age are also susceptible to more severe
disease. Immunization of others helps to protect these vulnerable
populations.
How to avoid getting measles
The best protection against measles is vaccination with two doses of
measles-containing vaccine.
The Public Health Agency of Canada reminds Canadians, especially
travelers, to make sure their measles vaccinations are up to date. The
first dosage of measles-containing vaccine is typically administered
at 12 months of age. Measles vaccine can be given to children
as early as six months of age if they are traveling to countries
where measles is widely circulating or live in a community where
many measles cases are occurring. If a measles vaccine is given
to a child less than 12 months old, another dose should be given
soon after their first birthday. For children between the ages of 6
months and 12 months who have had direct exposure to a measles
case, the preventative use of immunoglobulin within six days is
recommended.
If you have recently traveled and you develop symptoms similar
to measles when you return to Canada, you should see a health
care provider. Describe your symptoms over the phone before your
appointment, so that they can arrange to see you without exposing
others to measles.
Red eyes/sensitivity to
light
There is no specific
treatment for measles.
Symptoms are
usually treated with
medication to reduce
fever and fluids. Most people fully recover.
Travel information
The Public Health Agency of Canada is not advising any travel
restrictions related to measles at this time; however a Travel Health
Notice has been posted to provide recommendations to Canadian
travelers, including information on countries where measles is
occurring.
What the Public Health Agency of Canada is
doing
The Public Health Agency of Canada conducts routine surveillance
of measles cases in Canada and is currently working with provincial
and territorial authorities to monitor measles cases in Canada. The
Agency recommends that all Canadians ensure their vaccinations
are up to date. Additionally, travelers should be aware of the risks
and reduce the chance of getting sick while traveling by keeping all
immunizations up to date.
More information
General information on measles
Travel Health Notice
Media Contact
Public Health Agency of Canada
Media Relations
(613) 957-2983
Date Modified: 2015-02-17
From the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Website at:
http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/phn-asp/2015/meas-roug-eng.php
16
Family Bowling
Thursday, Mar. 19
Free!Free!Free!
Transportation Provided
12pm to 3pm
(pick up/drop off 11:30am at CWD, 3:30pm at CWD)
30 participants max
To sign up go to CWD and write all names on the sign
up
sheet!
17
Annual Family Day Fishing Derby nets
good times.
Join the Sagamok Card Club and enjoy some recreational card games like
Euchre, Crib, Yahtzee and more. Music, laughs and social time with friends and
family are all added bonuses!!!
When: 3rd Wednesday of each month 1Pm-3Pm (*some exceptions*)
Starting Apr. 15, 2015
Don’t Know how to play, come and learn! No Experience Necessary!
Cost: FREE
Where: Dinning Room at the Sagamok Elder’s Eagle Lodge
First Place winner Theodore with his First Place Prize of $500 for
his catch of 3lbs 8oz.
By: Allen Toulouse
Over 146 participants took part in the fishing derby, which
guaranteed prizes for attendees of all ages. Congratulations
to prize winners Mikey Toulouse, Layton Eshkakogan, Sasha
Assinewe and Theodore Eshkakogan.
Toys for youth were given away following the dispersal of cash
prizes. Everybody walked away a winner at this year’s Family
Day fishing derby. Chi meegwetch to all the staff involved in the
preparation and operation of this year’s Family Day Fishing Derby.
Who: Individuals 55+/self-referred individuals seeking
opportunities for more social activity
Assistance with transportation can be arranged
with calls in advance
TO REGISTER CONTACT: Delma Toulouse— Rehab Assistant
phone: 705-865-2926
(organized by the Delma Toulouse and Laura McMeekin-Clarke from the Sagamok Community Wellness Depart.)
18
19
Earth Hour
Lights Off Event
March 28, 2015
8:30pm – 9:30pm
**participate by turning off your
non-essential lights for one hour
as a symbol of commitment to
& audiobooks
Mother Earth**
on your computer, phone, tablet or iPod .
ENJOY eBooks
®
SAGAMOK PUBLIC LIBRARY 705-865-2421 EXT 283
©2013 OverDrive, Inc.
20
Top:Biidaaban Goalie Grant Stonefish is set to put the glove to
Pontiac’s puck.
(Photo Credit: Allen Toulouse)
Top: Darryl Abitong presents his catch for judging at the Family
Day Fishing Derby
Below: Snowmobilers were in full force at the Family Day Fishing
Derby, great to see everyone with their helmets on!
Above: Biidaaban’s Captain slips a puck past Pontiac’s goalie.
Below: Fist bumps for a well played game !